/ˈæbˌstrækt/ idea/summary noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
An abstract painting hangs on the wall.
/æbˈstrækt/ extract/consider verb stress on 2nd syllable
Scientists abstract key findings from the data.
Only the noun has a stable stress pattern (/ˈæbˌstrækt/). The adjective and verb are both heard with either stress in modern AmE, with /ˈæbˌstrækt/ and /æbˈstrækt/ interchangeable in everyday usage.
/əˈbjus/ mistreatment noun stress on 2nd syllable
Drug abuse is a serious public health concern.
/əˈbjuz/ to mistreat verb stress on 2nd syllable
Coaches must never abuse their players.
/ˈækˌsɛnt/ regional speech / emphasis noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
She speaks with a thick British accent.
/əkˈsɛnt/ to emphasize verb stress on 2nd syllable
The designer will accent the room with plants.
/ˈæˌdrɛs/ location noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please write your address on this form.
/əˈdrɛs/ to speak to / direct verb stress on 2nd syllable
The president will address the nation tonight.
/ˈædvəkət/ supporter noun stress on 1st syllable
She is a strong advocate for animal rights.
/ˈædvəˌkeɪt/ to argue for verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Many scientists advocate for climate action.
/əˈfɪliət/ partner company noun stress on 2nd syllable
The local TV affiliate broadcasts the news.
/əˈfɪliˌeɪt/ to associate verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
We are proud to affiliate with this charity.
/ˈæˌlaɪd/ partnered adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The allied forces won the battle.
/əˈlaɪd/ joined forces verb, past stress on 2nd syllable
The two companies allied to fight the competition.
/ˈɔltərnət/ substitute / every other adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
He is the alternate juror for the trial.
/ˈɔltərˌneɪt/ to switch between verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
The lights alternate between red and green.
/ˈæləm/ chemical/astringent noun stress on 1st syllable
Alum is used as a pickling spice.
/əˈlʌm/ alumnus noun stress on 2nd syllable
He's an alum of Harvard University.
/əˈproʊpriət/ suitable adj stress on 2nd syllable
That is not appropriate behavior at school.
/əˈproʊpriˌeɪt/ to take for one's use verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Leaders cannot appropriate public funds.
/ɑrˈtɪkjələt/ well-spoken adj stress on 2nd syllable
She is an articulate speaker.
/ɑrˈtɪkjəˌleɪt/ to speak clearly verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Try to articulate your feelings clearly.
/ˈætrəˌbjut/ characteristic noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Patience is an important attribute.
/əˈtrɪˌbjut/ to ascribe verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 3rd
Historians attribute the quote to Lincoln.
/ˈækˌsiz/ plural of axis noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Label the X and Y axes on your graph.
/ˈækˌsɪz/ plural of axe / to chop verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The lumberjacks sharpened their axes.
/ˈbeɪsiz/ plural of basis noun stress on 1st syllable
A triangle has three sides and the bases of formulas.
/ˈbeɪsɪz/ plural of base / verb 3rd person stress on 1st syllable
The company bases its prices on demand.
/beɪs/ sound
He plays the bass guitar in a jazz band.
/bæs/ fish
She caught a large bass in the lake.
Compare with: /beɪs/ base — foundation / lowest part (noun)
The base of the statue is made of marble.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the music sense of bass. Both /beɪs/.
/boʊ/ weapon/ribbon
He pulled back the bow and released the arrow.
/baʊ/ bend/nautical
The actors bow at the end of the show.
/bəˈfeɪ/ food noun stress on 2nd syllable
The hotel offers a breakfast buffet every morning.
/ˈbʌfɪt/ blow/hit verb stress on 1st syllable
Strong winds buffet the boat in the storm.
/tʃi/ energy
Tai chi balances the flow of chi through the body.
/kaɪ/ greek letter
Chi is the twenty-second letter of the Greek alphabet.
/kloʊs/ near/shut verb/adj
Please close the door behind you.
/kloʊz/ street/enclosure noun
We took a walk through the cathedral close.
/ˈkɑmbæt/ fighting noun stress on 1st syllable
The soldier returned from combat overseas.
/kəmˈbæt/ to fight verb stress on 2nd syllable
Doctors work hard to combat the disease.
/ˈkɑmbaɪn/ farm machine noun stress on 1st syllable
a combine harvester
/kəmˈbaɪn/ to merge verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let's combine our efforts on this project.
/ˈkɑmjun/ community noun stress on 1st syllable
They live in a small farming commune.
/kəˈmjun/ to share thoughts verb stress on 2nd syllable
She likes to commune with nature on weekends.
/ˈkɑmpækt/ small / case adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
She carries a compact mirror in her purse.
/kəmˈpækt/ to pack tightly verb stress on 2nd syllable
Garbage trucks compact the trash daily.
Note: Modern American English uses /ˈkɑmplɛks/ for both noun and adjective — shown above. Older dictionaries and British English give the adjective a second-syllable stress /kəmˈplɛks/, which most American speakers no longer use.
/ˈkɑmplɛks/ group of buildings / psychological condition noun stress on 1st syllable
He has a complex about his height.
/ˈkɑmplɛks/ complicated adj stress on 1st syllable
That was a complex problem to solve.
/ˈkɑmpaʊnd/ enclosure / chemical noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
The chemical compound is very unstable.
/kəmˈpaʊnd/ to make worse / combine verb stress on 2nd syllable
Late fees will compound over time.
/ˈkɑnsərt/ musical performance noun stress on 1st syllable
We bought tickets to the jazz concert.
/kənˈsərt/ to arrange together verb, rare stress on 2nd syllable
The nations concert their response to the crisis.
/ˈkɑndəkt/ behavior noun stress on 1st syllable
His conduct at the meeting was unprofessional.
/kənˈdʌkt/ to lead / carry out verb stress on 2nd syllable
She will conduct the orchestra tonight.
/ˈkɑnˌfaɪnz/ boundaries noun plural primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
He stayed within the confines of the prison.
/kənˈfaɪnz/ restricts verb, 3rd person stress on 2nd syllable
Her perfume confines the fragrance to the room.
/ˈkɑnflɪkt/ disagreement / war noun stress on 1st syllable
There is a conflict between the two teams.
/kənˈflɪkt/ to clash verb stress on 2nd syllable
The schedules conflict on Tuesday.
/ˈkɑnsoʊl/ control panel / game system noun stress on 1st syllable
He sat at the gaming console all afternoon.
/kənˈsoʊl/ to comfort verb stress on 2nd syllable
Friends gathered to console the grieving family.
/ˈkɑntɛnt/ what's inside / subject matter noun stress on 1st syllable
The content of the book is very interesting.
/kənˈtɛnt/ satisfied (adj) / to satisfy verb stress on 2nd syllable
She was content with her simple life.
/ˈkɑntɛst/ competition noun stress on 1st syllable
She won first prize in the baking contest.
/kənˈtɛst/ to dispute verb stress on 2nd syllable
The lawyer will contest the judge's ruling.
/ˈkɑnˌtrækt/ written agreement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please sign the contract at the bottom.
/kənˈtrækt/ to shrink / agree verb stress on 2nd syllable
Muscles contract when you flex your arm.
/ˈkɑnvərs/ opposite adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
The converse of that statement is also true.
/kənˈvərs/ to have a conversation verb stress on 2nd syllable
They would converse for hours on the phone.
/ˈkɑnvərt/ person who changed belief noun stress on 1st syllable
The religious convert studied for years.
/kənˈvərt/ to change verb stress on 2nd syllable
You can convert inches to centimeters.
/ˈkɑnvɪkt/ criminal noun stress on 1st syllable
The convict was released on parole.
/kənˈvɪkt/ to find guilty verb stress on 2nd syllable
The jury will convict him of the crime.
/koʊˈɔrdənət/ point reference / equal noun/adj stress on 2nd syllable
Give me the coordinate for the intersection.
/koʊˈɔrdəˌneɪt/ to organize verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
We need to coordinate our schedules.
/ˈdiˌkris/ reduction noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
There was a sharp decrease in sales.
/dɪˈkris/ to reduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
Doctors advise patients to decrease salt intake.
/dɪˈlɪbrət/ intentional adj stress on 2nd syllable
The attack was a deliberate act of sabotage.
/dɪˈlɪbəˌreɪt/ to consider carefully verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
The jury will deliberate for several hours.
/ˈdɛzərt/ terrain stress on 1st syllable
Cacti grow in the Mojave desert.
/dɪˈzərt/ abandon/punishment stress on 2nd syllable
Don't desert your friends in their time of need.
Compare with: /dɪˈzərt/ dessert — sweet course after a meal (noun)
I had ice cream for dessert.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the verb form of desert. A common confusion for English learners.
/dɪˈfjus/ spread out / scattered adj stress on 2nd syllable
The diffuse light filtered through the curtains.
/dɪˈfjuz/ to spread / disperse verb stress on 2nd syllable
We need to diffuse the tension in the room.
/ˈdɪsˌʧɑrʤ/ release/fluid noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The patient received his hospital discharge papers.
/dɪsˈʧɑrʤ/ to release/fire verb stress on 2nd syllable
Soldiers must discharge their weapons safely.
/ˈdɪsˌkaʊnt/ price reduction noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Seniors get a ten percent discount here.
/dɪˈskaʊnt/ to dismiss/reduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
Critics discount the theory as baseless.
/dʌv/ bird
A white dove is a symbol of peace.
/doʊv/ past tense of dive
She dove into the pool from the high board.
/drɔr/ box/furniture
I keep the keys in the top drawer.
/drɔər/ person who draws
The drawer sketched a beautiful landscape.
/ˈdupləkət/ copy noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
Please make a duplicate of the key.
/ˈdupləˌkeɪt/ to copy verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
This machine can duplicate the document quickly.
/ɪˈlæbrət/ detailed adj stress on 2nd syllable
The wedding had an elaborate cake display.
/ɪˈlæbəˌreɪt/ to give more detail verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Could you elaborate on your answer?
/ɪkˈskjus/ reason / justification noun stress on 2nd syllable
She made up a poor excuse for being late.
/ɪkˈskjuz/ to forgive / pardon verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please excuse my interruption.
/ˈɛkˌsplɔɪt/ feat / achievement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
His daring exploit made headlines.
/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ to take advantage of verb stress on 2nd syllable
Factories often exploit cheap labor.
/ˈɛkˌstrækt/ excerpt/essence noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Use vanilla extract in the cookie recipe.
/ɪkˈstrækt/ to pull out verb stress on 2nd syllable
The dentist will extract the broken tooth.
/gris/ fat / lubricant noun
Bacon grease can be reused for cooking.
/griz/ to apply grease verb
We need to grease the squeaky hinges.
In American English the voiced verb /griz/ varies regionally; many speakers use /gris/ for both.
/haʊs/ dwelling noun
They bought a new house last year.
/haʊz/ to provide shelter verb
The new building will house over two hundred students.
In American English the voiced verb /haʊz/ is variable; many speakers use /haʊs/ for both.
/ˈɪmˌpækt/ effect/collision noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The meteor made a huge impact on the surface.
/ˌɪmˈpækt/ to affect verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
New rules will impact all employees.
/ˈɪmˌplænt/ device noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
She got a dental implant last week.
/ˌɪmˈplænt/ to insert verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Surgeons implant pacemakers to help the heart.
/ˈɪmˌpɔrt/ goods from abroad noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
This rare import from Japan is very valuable.
/ˌɪmˈpɔrt/ to bring in verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
We can import goods from many countries.
/ˈɪnˌsɛns/ fragrant substance noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
They burn incense at the temple.
/ˌɪnˈsɛns/ to enrage verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
His rude remarks incense everyone at the table.
/ˈɪnˌklaɪn/ slope noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The road has a steep incline ahead.
/ˌɪnˈklaɪn/ to lean/tend verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
I incline toward the cheaper option.
/ˈɪnˌkris/ rise noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
There was a small increase in prices.
/ˌɪnˈkris/ to rise verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Taxes will increase next year.
/ˌɪnˈsərt/ to put in verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Please insert the memory card here.
/ˈɪnˌsərt/ added piece noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
He added an insert to the magazine.
/ˈɪnˌsəlt/ rude remark noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
That comment was a terrible insult.
/ˌɪnˈsʌlt/ to offend verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Please don't insult the chef's cooking.
/ˈɪntərˌsɛpt/ interception/math noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
The cornerback made a key intercept.
/ˌɪntərˈsɛpt/ to catch/cut off verb primary stress on 3rd, secondary on 1st
Spies intercept enemy communications.
/ˈɪntəmət/ close / personal adj stress on 1st syllable
They had an intimate conversation in private.
/ˈɪntəˌmeɪt/ to hint verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
He tried to intimate his concerns without being rude.
/ˈɪntrig/ plot/fascination noun stress on 1st syllable
Political intrigue filled the royal court.
/ˌɪnˈtrig/ to fascinate verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Mysteries always intrigue me.
/ˌɪnˈvæləd/ not valid adj primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
The coupon is invalid after Friday.
/ˈɪnvələd/ disabled person noun, dated stress on 1st syllable
The invalid has been in bed for weeks.
/ˈlæmənət/ layered material noun stress on 1st syllable
The kitchen has a new laminate floor.
/ˈlæməˌneɪt/ to coat with plastic verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
We need to laminate these signs for outdoor use.
/lid/ guide verb/noun
She will lead the team to victory.
/lɛd/ metal
The lead pipe must be replaced.
Compare with: /lɛd/ led — past tense of *to lead* (verb)
She led the team to victory last year.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the metal sense of lead. Led is the past tense of the verb to lead (the /lid/ pronunciation).
/lərnd/ past tense of learn verb
He learned Spanish in school last year.
/ˈlərnɪd/ scholarly / erudite adj stress on 1st syllable
The learned professor gave a brilliant lecture.
/ˈlaɪmə/ bean noun stress on 1st syllable
Lima beans are a healthy vegetable.
/ˈlimə/ city in Peru proper noun stress on 1st syllable
Lima is the capital of Peru.
/laɪv/ alive/real-time adj
We watched the live broadcast of the game.
/lɪv/ reside/exist verb
They live in a small apartment downtown.
/ˈmɪnət/ time stress on 1st syllable
Please wait one minute.
/maɪˈnut/ tiny adj stress on 2nd syllable
The detective noticed a minute detail on the carpet.
/maʊθ/ the body part noun
She covered her mouth with her hand.
/maʊð/ to silently form words verb
He silently mouthed the words from across the room.
In American English the voiced verb /maʊð/ is rare; many speakers use /maʊθ/ for both.
/ˈɑbʤɪkt/ thing / grammatical object noun stress on 1st syllable
What is that strange object on the table?
/əbˈʤɛkt/ to protest / oppose verb stress on 2nd syllable
I object to the lawyer's question!
/ˈpərˌfɪkt/ flawless adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
That is the perfect gift for mom.
/pərˈfɛkt/ to make perfect verb stress on 2nd syllable
She practices daily to perfect her technique.
/ˈpərvərt/ deviant person noun stress on 1st syllable
The pervert was arrested by the police.
/pərˈvərt/ to corrupt verb stress on 2nd syllable
Don't pervert the meaning of my words.
/ˈpɑlɪʃ/ make shiny / the substance verb/noun stress on 1st syllable
She put a fresh coat of polish on her nails.
/ˈpoʊlɪʃ/ from Poland adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
Polish cuisine features hearty stews.
/ˈpreɪər/ act of praying
The daily prayer brings her peace.
/prɛr/ person who prays
The prayer knelt quietly before the altar.
/ˈprɛzənt/ gift/current noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
I got a birthday present from my friend.
/prɪˈzɛnt/ show/introduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
He will present his findings at the conference.
/ˈproʊˌsidz/ profits/earnings noun plural primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
All proceeds go to the children's hospital.
/prəˈsidz/ goes forward verb stress on 2nd syllable
The ceremony proceeds according to tradition.
/ˈproʊdus/ fruits and vegetables noun stress on 1st syllable
Buy fresh produce at the farmers market.
/prəˈdus/ to make / manufacture verb stress on 2nd syllable
Factories produce millions of cars each year.
/ˈprɑˌgrɛs/ advancement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
We are making good progress on the project.
/prəˈgrɛs/ to move forward verb stress on 2nd syllable
The hurricane will progress northward tonight.
/ˈprɑʤɛkt/ planned undertaking noun stress on 1st syllable
I worked on a school project last night.
/prəˈʤɛkt/ to project / extend out verb stress on 2nd syllable
Speakers should project their voice clearly.
/ˈproʊˌtɛst/ public demonstration noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Thousands joined the peaceful protest.
/prəˈtɛst/ to object / demonstrate verb stress on 2nd syllable
Citizens protest the new tax law.
/ˈpʊɾɪŋ/ placing verb, from 'put' stress on 1st syllable
She is putting the dishes in the sink.
/ˈpʌɾɪŋ/ golf stroke verb, from 'putt' stress on 1st syllable
He spent the morning putting on the golf green.
/rid/ present tense
I read books every day before bed.
/rɛd/ past tense
I read a great book yesterday.
Compare with: /rɛd/ red — the color (adj/noun)
She wore a red dress to the party.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the past-tense form of read. Both /rɛd/.
/ˈridɪŋ/ act of reading / interpretation verb/noun stress on 1st syllable
I enjoy reading mystery novels.
/ˈrɛdɪŋ/ town in Pennsylvania / England proper noun stress on 1st syllable
Reading is a city in Pennsylvania.
/ril/ genuine/actual
Is this a real diamond ring?
/reɪˈɑl/ monetary unit Spanish/Portuguese stress on 2nd syllable
The Brazilian real is their currency.
/ˈrɛbəl/ person who rebels noun stress on 1st syllable
The rebel refused to follow orders.
/rɪˈbɛl/ to resist authority verb stress on 2nd syllable
Teenagers often rebel against their parents.
/ˈriˌkɔl/ product recall / election recall noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The company issued a safety recall of the cars.
/rɪˈkɔl/ to remember / summon back verb stress on 2nd syllable
I cannot recall where I parked.
/ˈriˌkæp/ summary noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Here is a quick recap of last week's news.
/rɪˈkæp/ to summarize / re-cap verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please recap the main points of the meeting.
/ˈrisɛs/ break/alcove noun stress on 1st syllable
Children love recess at school.
/rɪˈsɛs/ to adjourn verb stress on 2nd syllable
The judge will recess the trial for lunch.
/ˈrɛkərd/ achievement/document noun stress on 1st syllable
She broke the world record in the race.
/rɪˈkɔrd/ to capture / write down verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let me record this interview on my phone.
/rɪˈkaʊnt/ tell/narrate verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let me recount the story from the beginning.
/ˌriˈkaʊnt/ to count again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Officials will recount the ballots tomorrow.
/ˈriˌkaʊnt/ a count-again noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
They demanded a recount of the votes.
/ˈrɛkriˌeɪt/ do for recreation verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Families recreate together on weekends.
/ˌrikriˈeɪt/ create again verb primary stress on 3rd, secondary on 1st
Artists recreate the scene in the new film.
/ˈriˌfənd/ money returned noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The store offered a full refund.
/rɪˈfʌnd/ to return money verb stress on 2nd syllable
I will refund your money immediately.
/ˈrɛfjus/ trash / garbage noun stress on 1st syllable
Trash collectors pick up the refuse on Tuesdays.
/rɪˈfjuz/ to decline verb stress on 2nd syllable
I refuse to believe that is true.
/ˈriˌgrɛs/ regression/statistics noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Statistical regress shows a clear pattern.
/rɪˈgrɛs/ to go backward verb stress on 2nd syllable
Patients sometimes regress under stress.
/ˈriˌʤɛkt/ defective item / rejected person noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The factory tossed out the defective reject.
/rɪˈʤɛkt/ to refuse / not accept verb stress on 2nd syllable
Colleges sometimes reject qualified applicants.
Note: Modern American English uses /ˈriˌsɝtʃ/ for both noun and verb — shown above with primary stress on the first syllable, secondary on the second. Older dictionaries and British English give the verb a second-syllable stress /rɪˈsɝtʃ/, which most American speakers no longer use.
/ˈriˌsɜrʧ/ investigation noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Her research on cancer won a prize.
/ˈriˌsɜrʧ/ to investigate verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
I need to research this topic more.
/rɪˈzaɪn/ quit/step down verb stress on 2nd syllable
He decided to resign from the committee.
/ˌriˈsaɪn/ sign again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
The team will resign the star player next year.
/rɪˈzum/ continue verb stress on 2nd syllable
Classes will resume after the holiday.
/ˈrɛzəˌmeɪ/ CV noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Submit your resume with the application.
/ˈriˌteɪk/ second attempt noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The teacher allowed a retake of the exam.
/ˌriˈteɪk/ take again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Students can retake the course next semester.
/rɪˈtɑrd/ to delay / slow verb stress on 2nd syllable
Chemicals can retard the aging process.
/ˈriˌtɑrd/ slow-witted noun, offensive primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Don't use the word retard to describe someone.
/roʊ/ line/sequence
Please sit in the front row.
/raʊ/ argument/quarrel
The couple had a loud row last night.
/ˈsɛprət/ distinct / apart adj stress on 1st syllable
They sleep in separate rooms.
/ˈsɛpəˌreɪt/ to divide verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Please separate the recyclables from the trash.
/ˈsuər/ drain/pipe
The sewer overflowed after the heavy rain.
/ˈsoʊər/ person who sews
The sewer stitched the quilt by hand.
/slaʊ/ marsh/swamp
The marsh slough is full of cattails.
/slʌf/ shed skin/discard
Snakes slough their skin as they grow.
/soʊ/ plant seeds verb
The farmer will sow the corn next week.
/saʊ/ female pig noun
The sow nursed her piglets in the barn.
Compare with: /soʊ/ sew — stitch with thread (verb)
She learned to sew at her grandmother's house.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the plant-seeds sense of sow. Both /soʊ/. The adverb so is also a homophone of all three.
/ˈsʌbʤɪkt/ topic / citizen noun stress on 1st syllable
What is the subject of your essay?
/səbˈʤɛkt/ to expose / impose verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please don't subject me to another lecture.
/ˈsərˌveɪ/ poll / measurement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please complete our customer survey.
/sərˈveɪ/ to examine / poll verb stress on 2nd syllable
Engineers survey the land before building.
/ˈsʌˌspɛkt/ accused person noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The police arrested the suspect last night.
/səˈspɛkt/ to mistrust / guess verb stress on 2nd syllable
I suspect he is hiding something.
/tɪr/ teardrop noun
A single tear rolled down her cheek.
/tɛr/ rip verb/noun
Careful not to tear the fragile paper.
Compare with: /tɪr/ tier — level / rank (noun)
The wedding cake had three tiers.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the teardrop sense of tear. Means a level or rank — a common homophone in English.
/ˈtrænsfər/ transfer document / move noun stress on 1st syllable
The bank transfer arrived in my account this morning.
/trænsˈfər/ to move / hand over verb stress on 2nd syllable
Banks transfer money electronically every day.
/ˈtrænsˌfɔrm/ mathematical operation noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Use a Fourier transform to analyze the signal.
/trænsˈfɔrm/ to change form verb stress on 2nd syllable
Technology will transform education completely.
/ˈtrænsˌpɔrt/ means of transport noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Public transport is free for seniors.
/trænˈspɔrt/ to move/convey verb stress on 2nd syllable
The trucks transport goods across the country.
/ˈʌpˌdeɪt/ new information / upgrade noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Here is a quick update on the situation.
/əpˈdeɪt/ to bring up to date verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please update your software to the latest version.
/ˈʌpˌsɛt/ surprise loss / distressed noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The team's win was a huge upset.
/əpˈsɛt/ to disturb / overturn verb stress on 2nd syllable
Don't upset the baby while he's sleeping.
/jus/ purpose noun
What is the use of this old tool?
/juz/ utilize verb
Please use the napkin provided.
/wɪnd/ air noun
A strong wind blew the leaves away.
/waɪnd/ turn/coil verb
Please wind the antique clock each night.
/wund/ injury noun
The soldier treated the gunshot wound.
/waʊnd/ past tense of wind
She wound the bandage around his arm.
Same spelling — primary stress moves to a different syllable to mark grammatical role (most often noun vs verb).
/ˈæbˌstrækt/ idea/summary noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
An abstract painting hangs on the wall.
/æbˈstrækt/ extract/consider verb stress on 2nd syllable
Scientists abstract key findings from the data.
Only the noun has a stable stress pattern (/ˈæbˌstrækt/). The adjective and verb are both heard with either stress in modern AmE, with /ˈæbˌstrækt/ and /æbˈstrækt/ interchangeable in everyday usage.
/ˈækˌsɛnt/ regional speech / emphasis noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
She speaks with a thick British accent.
/əkˈsɛnt/ to emphasize verb stress on 2nd syllable
The designer will accent the room with plants.
/ˈæˌdrɛs/ location noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please write your address on this form.
/əˈdrɛs/ to speak to / direct verb stress on 2nd syllable
The president will address the nation tonight.
/ˈæˌlaɪd/ partnered adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The allied forces won the battle.
/əˈlaɪd/ joined forces verb, past stress on 2nd syllable
The two companies allied to fight the competition.
/ˈætrəˌbjut/ characteristic noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Patience is an important attribute.
/əˈtrɪˌbjut/ to ascribe verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 3rd
Historians attribute the quote to Lincoln.
/ˈkɑmbæt/ fighting noun stress on 1st syllable
The soldier returned from combat overseas.
/kəmˈbæt/ to fight verb stress on 2nd syllable
Doctors work hard to combat the disease.
/ˈkɑmbaɪn/ farm machine noun stress on 1st syllable
a combine harvester
/kəmˈbaɪn/ to merge verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let's combine our efforts on this project.
/ˈkɑmjun/ community noun stress on 1st syllable
They live in a small farming commune.
/kəˈmjun/ to share thoughts verb stress on 2nd syllable
She likes to commune with nature on weekends.
/ˈkɑmpækt/ small / case adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
She carries a compact mirror in her purse.
/kəmˈpækt/ to pack tightly verb stress on 2nd syllable
Garbage trucks compact the trash daily.
/ˈkɑmpaʊnd/ enclosure / chemical noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
The chemical compound is very unstable.
/kəmˈpaʊnd/ to make worse / combine verb stress on 2nd syllable
Late fees will compound over time.
/ˈkɑnsərt/ musical performance noun stress on 1st syllable
We bought tickets to the jazz concert.
/kənˈsərt/ to arrange together verb, rare stress on 2nd syllable
The nations concert their response to the crisis.
/ˈkɑndəkt/ behavior noun stress on 1st syllable
His conduct at the meeting was unprofessional.
/kənˈdʌkt/ to lead / carry out verb stress on 2nd syllable
She will conduct the orchestra tonight.
/ˈkɑnˌfaɪnz/ boundaries noun plural primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
He stayed within the confines of the prison.
/kənˈfaɪnz/ restricts verb, 3rd person stress on 2nd syllable
Her perfume confines the fragrance to the room.
/ˈkɑnflɪkt/ disagreement / war noun stress on 1st syllable
There is a conflict between the two teams.
/kənˈflɪkt/ to clash verb stress on 2nd syllable
The schedules conflict on Tuesday.
/ˈkɑnsoʊl/ control panel / game system noun stress on 1st syllable
He sat at the gaming console all afternoon.
/kənˈsoʊl/ to comfort verb stress on 2nd syllable
Friends gathered to console the grieving family.
/ˈkɑntɛnt/ what's inside / subject matter noun stress on 1st syllable
The content of the book is very interesting.
/kənˈtɛnt/ satisfied (adj) / to satisfy verb stress on 2nd syllable
She was content with her simple life.
/ˈkɑntɛst/ competition noun stress on 1st syllable
She won first prize in the baking contest.
/kənˈtɛst/ to dispute verb stress on 2nd syllable
The lawyer will contest the judge's ruling.
/ˈkɑnˌtrækt/ written agreement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please sign the contract at the bottom.
/kənˈtrækt/ to shrink / agree verb stress on 2nd syllable
Muscles contract when you flex your arm.
/ˈkɑnvərs/ opposite adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
The converse of that statement is also true.
/kənˈvərs/ to have a conversation verb stress on 2nd syllable
They would converse for hours on the phone.
/ˈkɑnvərt/ person who changed belief noun stress on 1st syllable
The religious convert studied for years.
/kənˈvərt/ to change verb stress on 2nd syllable
You can convert inches to centimeters.
/ˈkɑnvɪkt/ criminal noun stress on 1st syllable
The convict was released on parole.
/kənˈvɪkt/ to find guilty verb stress on 2nd syllable
The jury will convict him of the crime.
/ˈdiˌkris/ reduction noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
There was a sharp decrease in sales.
/dɪˈkris/ to reduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
Doctors advise patients to decrease salt intake.
/ˈdɪsˌʧɑrʤ/ release/fluid noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The patient received his hospital discharge papers.
/dɪsˈʧɑrʤ/ to release/fire verb stress on 2nd syllable
Soldiers must discharge their weapons safely.
/ˈdɪsˌkaʊnt/ price reduction noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Seniors get a ten percent discount here.
/dɪˈskaʊnt/ to dismiss/reduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
Critics discount the theory as baseless.
/ˈɛkˌsplɔɪt/ feat / achievement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
His daring exploit made headlines.
/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ to take advantage of verb stress on 2nd syllable
Factories often exploit cheap labor.
/ˈɛkˌstrækt/ excerpt/essence noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Use vanilla extract in the cookie recipe.
/ɪkˈstrækt/ to pull out verb stress on 2nd syllable
The dentist will extract the broken tooth.
/ˈɪmˌpækt/ effect/collision noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The meteor made a huge impact on the surface.
/ˌɪmˈpækt/ to affect verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
New rules will impact all employees.
/ˈɪmˌplænt/ device noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
She got a dental implant last week.
/ˌɪmˈplænt/ to insert verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Surgeons implant pacemakers to help the heart.
/ˈɪmˌpɔrt/ goods from abroad noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
This rare import from Japan is very valuable.
/ˌɪmˈpɔrt/ to bring in verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
We can import goods from many countries.
/ˈɪnˌsɛns/ fragrant substance noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
They burn incense at the temple.
/ˌɪnˈsɛns/ to enrage verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
His rude remarks incense everyone at the table.
/ˈɪnˌklaɪn/ slope noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The road has a steep incline ahead.
/ˌɪnˈklaɪn/ to lean/tend verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
I incline toward the cheaper option.
/ˈɪnˌkris/ rise noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
There was a small increase in prices.
/ˌɪnˈkris/ to rise verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Taxes will increase next year.
/ˌɪnˈsərt/ to put in verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Please insert the memory card here.
/ˈɪnˌsərt/ added piece noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
He added an insert to the magazine.
/ˈɪnˌsəlt/ rude remark noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
That comment was a terrible insult.
/ˌɪnˈsʌlt/ to offend verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Please don't insult the chef's cooking.
/ˈɪntərˌsɛpt/ interception/math noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
The cornerback made a key intercept.
/ˌɪntərˈsɛpt/ to catch/cut off verb primary stress on 3rd, secondary on 1st
Spies intercept enemy communications.
/ˈɪntrig/ plot/fascination noun stress on 1st syllable
Political intrigue filled the royal court.
/ˌɪnˈtrig/ to fascinate verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Mysteries always intrigue me.
/ˈɑbʤɪkt/ thing / grammatical object noun stress on 1st syllable
What is that strange object on the table?
/əbˈʤɛkt/ to protest / oppose verb stress on 2nd syllable
I object to the lawyer's question!
/ˈpərˌfɪkt/ flawless adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
That is the perfect gift for mom.
/pərˈfɛkt/ to make perfect verb stress on 2nd syllable
She practices daily to perfect her technique.
/ˈpərvərt/ deviant person noun stress on 1st syllable
The pervert was arrested by the police.
/pərˈvərt/ to corrupt verb stress on 2nd syllable
Don't pervert the meaning of my words.
/ˈprɛzənt/ gift/current noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
I got a birthday present from my friend.
/prɪˈzɛnt/ show/introduce verb stress on 2nd syllable
He will present his findings at the conference.
/ˈproʊˌsidz/ profits/earnings noun plural primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
All proceeds go to the children's hospital.
/prəˈsidz/ goes forward verb stress on 2nd syllable
The ceremony proceeds according to tradition.
/ˈproʊdus/ fruits and vegetables noun stress on 1st syllable
Buy fresh produce at the farmers market.
/prəˈdus/ to make / manufacture verb stress on 2nd syllable
Factories produce millions of cars each year.
/ˈprɑˌgrɛs/ advancement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
We are making good progress on the project.
/prəˈgrɛs/ to move forward verb stress on 2nd syllable
The hurricane will progress northward tonight.
/ˈprɑʤɛkt/ planned undertaking noun stress on 1st syllable
I worked on a school project last night.
/prəˈʤɛkt/ to project / extend out verb stress on 2nd syllable
Speakers should project their voice clearly.
/ˈproʊˌtɛst/ public demonstration noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Thousands joined the peaceful protest.
/prəˈtɛst/ to object / demonstrate verb stress on 2nd syllable
Citizens protest the new tax law.
/ˈrɛbəl/ person who rebels noun stress on 1st syllable
The rebel refused to follow orders.
/rɪˈbɛl/ to resist authority verb stress on 2nd syllable
Teenagers often rebel against their parents.
/ˈriˌkɔl/ product recall / election recall noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The company issued a safety recall of the cars.
/rɪˈkɔl/ to remember / summon back verb stress on 2nd syllable
I cannot recall where I parked.
/ˈriˌkæp/ summary noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Here is a quick recap of last week's news.
/rɪˈkæp/ to summarize / re-cap verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please recap the main points of the meeting.
/ˈrisɛs/ break/alcove noun stress on 1st syllable
Children love recess at school.
/rɪˈsɛs/ to adjourn verb stress on 2nd syllable
The judge will recess the trial for lunch.
/ˈrɛkərd/ achievement/document noun stress on 1st syllable
She broke the world record in the race.
/rɪˈkɔrd/ to capture / write down verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let me record this interview on my phone.
/rɪˈkaʊnt/ tell/narrate verb stress on 2nd syllable
Let me recount the story from the beginning.
/ˌriˈkaʊnt/ to count again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Officials will recount the ballots tomorrow.
/ˈriˌkaʊnt/ a count-again noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
They demanded a recount of the votes.
/ˈriˌfənd/ money returned noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The store offered a full refund.
/rɪˈfʌnd/ to return money verb stress on 2nd syllable
I will refund your money immediately.
/ˈrɛfjus/ trash / garbage noun stress on 1st syllable
Trash collectors pick up the refuse on Tuesdays.
/rɪˈfjuz/ to decline verb stress on 2nd syllable
I refuse to believe that is true.
/ˈriˌgrɛs/ regression/statistics noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Statistical regress shows a clear pattern.
/rɪˈgrɛs/ to go backward verb stress on 2nd syllable
Patients sometimes regress under stress.
/ˈriˌʤɛkt/ defective item / rejected person noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The factory tossed out the defective reject.
/rɪˈʤɛkt/ to refuse / not accept verb stress on 2nd syllable
Colleges sometimes reject qualified applicants.
/rɪˈzum/ continue verb stress on 2nd syllable
Classes will resume after the holiday.
/ˈrɛzəˌmeɪ/ CV noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Submit your resume with the application.
/ˈriˌteɪk/ second attempt noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The teacher allowed a retake of the exam.
/ˌriˈteɪk/ take again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
Students can retake the course next semester.
/rɪˈtɑrd/ to delay / slow verb stress on 2nd syllable
Chemicals can retard the aging process.
/ˈriˌtɑrd/ slow-witted noun, offensive primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Don't use the word retard to describe someone.
/ˈsʌbʤɪkt/ topic / citizen noun stress on 1st syllable
What is the subject of your essay?
/səbˈʤɛkt/ to expose / impose verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please don't subject me to another lecture.
/ˈsərˌveɪ/ poll / measurement noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Please complete our customer survey.
/sərˈveɪ/ to examine / poll verb stress on 2nd syllable
Engineers survey the land before building.
/ˈsʌˌspɛkt/ accused person noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The police arrested the suspect last night.
/səˈspɛkt/ to mistrust / guess verb stress on 2nd syllable
I suspect he is hiding something.
/ˈtrænsfər/ transfer document / move noun stress on 1st syllable
The bank transfer arrived in my account this morning.
/trænsˈfər/ to move / hand over verb stress on 2nd syllable
Banks transfer money electronically every day.
/ˈtrænsˌfɔrm/ mathematical operation noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Use a Fourier transform to analyze the signal.
/trænsˈfɔrm/ to change form verb stress on 2nd syllable
Technology will transform education completely.
/ˈtrænsˌpɔrt/ means of transport noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Public transport is free for seniors.
/trænˈspɔrt/ to move/convey verb stress on 2nd syllable
The trucks transport goods across the country.
/ˈʌpˌdeɪt/ new information / upgrade noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Here is a quick update on the situation.
/əpˈdeɪt/ to bring up to date verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please update your software to the latest version.
/ˈʌpˌsɛt/ surprise loss / distressed noun/adj primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The team's win was a huge upset.
/əpˈsɛt/ to disturb / overturn verb stress on 2nd syllable
Don't upset the baby while he's sleeping.
Same spelling — primary stress stays in place, but the verb form has a full /eɪt/ on the -ate suffix where the noun or adjective has a reduced /ət/.
/ˈædvəkət/ supporter noun stress on 1st syllable
She is a strong advocate for animal rights.
/ˈædvəˌkeɪt/ to argue for verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Many scientists advocate for climate action.
/əˈfɪliət/ partner company noun stress on 2nd syllable
The local TV affiliate broadcasts the news.
/əˈfɪliˌeɪt/ to associate verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
We are proud to affiliate with this charity.
/ˈɔltərnət/ substitute / every other adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
He is the alternate juror for the trial.
/ˈɔltərˌneɪt/ to switch between verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
The lights alternate between red and green.
/əˈproʊpriət/ suitable adj stress on 2nd syllable
That is not appropriate behavior at school.
/əˈproʊpriˌeɪt/ to take for one's use verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Leaders cannot appropriate public funds.
/ɑrˈtɪkjələt/ well-spoken adj stress on 2nd syllable
She is an articulate speaker.
/ɑrˈtɪkjəˌleɪt/ to speak clearly verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Try to articulate your feelings clearly.
/koʊˈɔrdənət/ point reference / equal noun/adj stress on 2nd syllable
Give me the coordinate for the intersection.
/koʊˈɔrdəˌneɪt/ to organize verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
We need to coordinate our schedules.
/dɪˈlɪbrət/ intentional adj stress on 2nd syllable
The attack was a deliberate act of sabotage.
/dɪˈlɪbəˌreɪt/ to consider carefully verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
The jury will deliberate for several hours.
/ˈdupləkət/ copy noun/adj stress on 1st syllable
Please make a duplicate of the key.
/ˈdupləˌkeɪt/ to copy verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
This machine can duplicate the document quickly.
/ɪˈlæbrət/ detailed adj stress on 2nd syllable
The wedding had an elaborate cake display.
/ɪˈlæbəˌreɪt/ to give more detail verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 4th
Could you elaborate on your answer?
/ˈɪntəmət/ close / personal adj stress on 1st syllable
They had an intimate conversation in private.
/ˈɪntəˌmeɪt/ to hint verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
He tried to intimate his concerns without being rude.
/ˈlæmənət/ layered material noun stress on 1st syllable
The kitchen has a new laminate floor.
/ˈlæməˌneɪt/ to coat with plastic verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
We need to laminate these signs for outdoor use.
/ˈsɛprət/ distinct / apart adj stress on 1st syllable
They sleep in separate rooms.
/ˈsɛpəˌreɪt/ to divide verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Please separate the recyclables from the trash.
Same spelling — the final consonant flips voicing between noun (voiceless: /s/, /θ/, /f/) and verb (voiced: /z/, /ð/, /v/). In American English the distinction can be subtle, especially in house, mouth, and grease.
/əˈbjus/ mistreatment noun stress on 2nd syllable
Drug abuse is a serious public health concern.
/əˈbjuz/ to mistreat verb stress on 2nd syllable
Coaches must never abuse their players.
/kloʊs/ near/shut verb/adj
Please close the door behind you.
/kloʊz/ street/enclosure noun
We took a walk through the cathedral close.
/dɪˈfjus/ spread out / scattered adj stress on 2nd syllable
The diffuse light filtered through the curtains.
/dɪˈfjuz/ to spread / disperse verb stress on 2nd syllable
We need to diffuse the tension in the room.
/ɪkˈskjus/ reason / justification noun stress on 2nd syllable
She made up a poor excuse for being late.
/ɪkˈskjuz/ to forgive / pardon verb stress on 2nd syllable
Please excuse my interruption.
/gris/ fat / lubricant noun
Bacon grease can be reused for cooking.
/griz/ to apply grease verb
We need to grease the squeaky hinges.
In American English the voiced verb /griz/ varies regionally; many speakers use /gris/ for both.
/haʊs/ dwelling noun
They bought a new house last year.
/haʊz/ to provide shelter verb
The new building will house over two hundred students.
In American English the voiced verb /haʊz/ is variable; many speakers use /haʊs/ for both.
/maʊθ/ the body part noun
She covered her mouth with her hand.
/maʊð/ to silently form words verb
He silently mouthed the words from across the room.
In American English the voiced verb /maʊð/ is rare; many speakers use /maʊθ/ for both.
/ˈrɛfjus/ trash / garbage noun stress on 1st syllable
Trash collectors pick up the refuse on Tuesdays.
/rɪˈfjuz/ to decline verb stress on 2nd syllable
I refuse to believe that is true.
/jus/ purpose noun
What is the use of this old tool?
/juz/ utilize verb
Please use the napkin provided.
Same spelling — the past tense is pronounced differently from the present, or two distinct verbs collide.
/dʌv/ bird
A white dove is a symbol of peace.
/doʊv/ past tense of dive
She dove into the pool from the high board.
/lərnd/ past tense of learn verb
He learned Spanish in school last year.
/ˈlərnɪd/ scholarly / erudite adj stress on 1st syllable
The learned professor gave a brilliant lecture.
/rid/ present tense
I read books every day before bed.
/rɛd/ past tense
I read a great book yesterday.
Compare with: /rɛd/ red — the color (adj/noun)
She wore a red dress to the party.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the past-tense form of read. Both /rɛd/.
/wund/ injury noun
The soldier treated the gunshot wound.
/waʊnd/ past tense of wind
She wound the bandage around his arm.
Same spelling — unrelated meanings and different sounds.
/ˈæləm/ chemical/astringent noun stress on 1st syllable
Alum is used as a pickling spice.
/əˈlʌm/ alumnus noun stress on 2nd syllable
He's an alum of Harvard University.
/ˈækˌsiz/ plural of axis noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Label the X and Y axes on your graph.
/ˈækˌsɪz/ plural of axe / to chop verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
The lumberjacks sharpened their axes.
/ˈbeɪsiz/ plural of basis noun stress on 1st syllable
A triangle has three sides and the bases of formulas.
/ˈbeɪsɪz/ plural of base / verb 3rd person stress on 1st syllable
The company bases its prices on demand.
/beɪs/ sound
He plays the bass guitar in a jazz band.
/bæs/ fish
She caught a large bass in the lake.
Compare with: /beɪs/ base — foundation / lowest part (noun)
The base of the statue is made of marble.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the music sense of bass. Both /beɪs/.
/boʊ/ weapon/ribbon
He pulled back the bow and released the arrow.
/baʊ/ bend/nautical
The actors bow at the end of the show.
/bəˈfeɪ/ food noun stress on 2nd syllable
The hotel offers a breakfast buffet every morning.
/ˈbʌfɪt/ blow/hit verb stress on 1st syllable
Strong winds buffet the boat in the storm.
/tʃi/ energy
Tai chi balances the flow of chi through the body.
/kaɪ/ greek letter
Chi is the twenty-second letter of the Greek alphabet.
/ˈdɛzərt/ terrain stress on 1st syllable
Cacti grow in the Mojave desert.
/dɪˈzərt/ abandon/punishment stress on 2nd syllable
Don't desert your friends in their time of need.
Compare with: /dɪˈzərt/ dessert — sweet course after a meal (noun)
I had ice cream for dessert.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the verb form of desert. A common confusion for English learners.
/drɔr/ box/furniture
I keep the keys in the top drawer.
/drɔər/ person who draws
The drawer sketched a beautiful landscape.
/ˌɪnˈvæləd/ not valid adj primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
The coupon is invalid after Friday.
/ˈɪnvələd/ disabled person noun, dated stress on 1st syllable
The invalid has been in bed for weeks.
/lid/ guide verb/noun
She will lead the team to victory.
/lɛd/ metal
The lead pipe must be replaced.
Compare with: /lɛd/ led — past tense of *to lead* (verb)
She led the team to victory last year.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the metal sense of lead. Led is the past tense of the verb to lead (the /lid/ pronunciation).
/ˈlaɪmə/ bean noun stress on 1st syllable
Lima beans are a healthy vegetable.
/ˈlimə/ city in Peru proper noun stress on 1st syllable
Lima is the capital of Peru.
/laɪv/ alive/real-time adj
We watched the live broadcast of the game.
/lɪv/ reside/exist verb
They live in a small apartment downtown.
/ˈmɪnət/ time stress on 1st syllable
Please wait one minute.
/maɪˈnut/ tiny adj stress on 2nd syllable
The detective noticed a minute detail on the carpet.
/ˈpɑlɪʃ/ make shiny / the substance verb/noun stress on 1st syllable
She put a fresh coat of polish on her nails.
/ˈpoʊlɪʃ/ from Poland adj/noun stress on 1st syllable
Polish cuisine features hearty stews.
/ˈpreɪər/ act of praying
The daily prayer brings her peace.
/prɛr/ person who prays
The prayer knelt quietly before the altar.
/ˈpʊɾɪŋ/ placing verb, from 'put' stress on 1st syllable
She is putting the dishes in the sink.
/ˈpʌɾɪŋ/ golf stroke verb, from 'putt' stress on 1st syllable
He spent the morning putting on the golf green.
/ˈridɪŋ/ act of reading / interpretation verb/noun stress on 1st syllable
I enjoy reading mystery novels.
/ˈrɛdɪŋ/ town in Pennsylvania / England proper noun stress on 1st syllable
Reading is a city in Pennsylvania.
/ril/ genuine/actual
Is this a real diamond ring?
/reɪˈɑl/ monetary unit Spanish/Portuguese stress on 2nd syllable
The Brazilian real is their currency.
/ˈrɛkriˌeɪt/ do for recreation verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 3rd
Families recreate together on weekends.
/ˌrikriˈeɪt/ create again verb primary stress on 3rd, secondary on 1st
Artists recreate the scene in the new film.
/rɪˈzaɪn/ quit/step down verb stress on 2nd syllable
He decided to resign from the committee.
/ˌriˈsaɪn/ sign again verb primary stress on 2nd, secondary on 1st
The team will resign the star player next year.
/roʊ/ line/sequence
Please sit in the front row.
/raʊ/ argument/quarrel
The couple had a loud row last night.
/ˈsuər/ drain/pipe
The sewer overflowed after the heavy rain.
/ˈsoʊər/ person who sews
The sewer stitched the quilt by hand.
/slaʊ/ marsh/swamp
The marsh slough is full of cattails.
/slʌf/ shed skin/discard
Snakes slough their skin as they grow.
/soʊ/ plant seeds verb
The farmer will sow the corn next week.
/saʊ/ female pig noun
The sow nursed her piglets in the barn.
Compare with: /soʊ/ sew — stitch with thread (verb)
She learned to sew at her grandmother's house.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the plant-seeds sense of sow. Both /soʊ/. The adverb so is also a homophone of all three.
/tɪr/ teardrop noun
A single tear rolled down her cheek.
/tɛr/ rip verb/noun
Careful not to tear the fragile paper.
Compare with: /tɪr/ tier — level / rank (noun)
The wedding cake had three tiers.
Different spelling, but pronounced exactly like the teardrop sense of tear. Means a level or rank — a common homophone in English.
/wɪnd/ air noun
A strong wind blew the leaves away.
/waɪnd/ turn/coil verb
Please wind the antique clock each night.
Heteronyms whose phonological distinction has effectively collapsed in modern American English. Dictionaries still list two pronunciations, but most American speakers use a single form for both meanings. Listed here for historical and dialectal reference — see each entry's note for details.
Note: Modern American English uses /ˈkɑmplɛks/ for both noun and adjective — shown above. Older dictionaries and British English give the adjective a second-syllable stress /kəmˈplɛks/, which most American speakers no longer use.
/ˈkɑmplɛks/ group of buildings / psychological condition noun stress on 1st syllable
He has a complex about his height.
/ˈkɑmplɛks/ complicated adj stress on 1st syllable
That was a complex problem to solve.
Note: Modern American English uses /ˈriˌsɝtʃ/ for both noun and verb — shown above with primary stress on the first syllable, secondary on the second. Older dictionaries and British English give the verb a second-syllable stress /rɪˈsɝtʃ/, which most American speakers no longer use.
/ˈriˌsɜrʧ/ investigation noun primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
Her research on cancer won a prize.
/ˈriˌsɜrʧ/ to investigate verb primary stress on 1st, secondary on 2nd
I need to research this topic more.